Licorice Plant

Licorice Plant Care

Helichrysum Petiolare

What is the plant

The licorice plant (Helichrysum petiolare) has been enthusiastically embraced by gardeners for its frosted, felt-like leaves and its gently spreading growth habit. Although not large, the licorice plant makes a strong impact with its unique texture, form, and color, and makes a great groundcover or trailing plant for containers. Its name is due to the fact that many varieties have a licorice scent, although the plants are not edible and are not used for making licorice. The species is listed as invasive in some areas where it is perennial.

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Lighting

Full Sun

Hardiness zone

9a - 11

Difficulty

Easy

Invasive

Weed

How to Care for the Plant

Water
The licorice plant is very drought tolerant, but it grows best with regular watering. Make sure the excess water drains and the plants are not sitting in wet soil, or the roots will rot. It is time to water again when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
Fertilizer
Licorice plants are not heavy feeders. If your soil is poor, add some compost or other organic materials. This will add some trace nutrients as well as improve drainage.When grown as an annual, you can also apply a balanced fertilizer mid-season, for an extra boost. If your plants are perennial, a dose of fertilizer once or twice a year may be needed.
Sunlight
A full sun site is best for growing the licorice plant. However, since they are not grown for their flowers, they will also do well in partial shade. The plants will be a little less vigorous in partial shade, but in areas with excessive heat, the leaves may stay more attractive when they are given some relief from the hot sun.

Disease diagnosis

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Soil
The licorice plant will grow in most soil, but it can develop root rot in soils that retain water, so a well-draining site or container is best. It is not particular about soil pH.
Temperature
Licorice plants cannot handle any frost. In general, wait until it is warm enough to plant tomatoes and peppers, before putting your licorice plant outdoors.
Popularity
329 people already have this plant 57 people have added this plant to their wishlists